On Sunday, July 31, at 4:00 pm, the North Neighborhood Library, 5571 Orange Avenue, will close in preparation for the opening of the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library on Saturday, September 10, at 10:00 am. The closure is necessary to move the collection, supplies and other items to the new location and assure operational excellence at the new site.

“We are all very excited that the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library will soon be opening its doors for the residents of Long Beach,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “This new library will include an extensive book collection and the latest technology and computers."

The new library, located at 5870 Atlantic Avenue, will be three and one-half times the size of the previous location, will have three community rooms and study rooms with audio visual technology to support group meetings, workshops, seminars and group study needs.

“The Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library will be a place for the community to gather, learn, and build strong community ties,” said Councilmember Al Austin.

“The iconic new Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library will set a new standard for design and architecture on the Atlantic corridor,” said Councilmember Rex Richardson. "It is a symbol to inspire the public to reach higher and achieve their dreams."

Library materials may still be returned to the North Neighborhood Library book drops, and will be checked in on the same day. Materials can also be returned in person at any open Long Beach library. The nearest libraries to North Neighborhood Library are:

“The new library will be the first library in Long Beach to feature an automated book return system that efficiently assists staff with returning library materials to the shelves more quickly for the public,” said Glenda Williams, Library Services Director.

During the closure, patrons will also be able to place requests for books and other material, and choose their temporary location for pick-up. Notification to the public will be made through signs posted at the library, announcements on the Library’s website (www.lbpl.org), and social media, including Facebook and Twitter.

About Long Beach Public LibraryLong Beach Public Library, founded in 1896, serves a diverse urban city of close to half a million people. The Long Beach Public Library system includes Main Library, eleven other unique Neighborhood Libraries and a vibrant online presence. With an emphasis on providing free and equal access to information and support for lifelong-learning, the Library offers books, media, downloads, databases, Internet access, Family Learning Centers and a variety of events ranging from story times to cultural programs.